Single shot M1A

[Flash Hole]

Question
Can I close the spindle valve on my M1A gas system and safely shoot some
Hunting rounds that I have laying around without breaking or bending anything?
Thanks in advance.

John

 

[lipadj46]

Yes as long as they are not the light magnums even though those in theory would probably be OK too. Also an adjustable gas plug is a cheap modification for using heavy bullets in an op rod rifle.

 

[Steak]

This post got me curious...

I have an M1A loaded which I love. I would like to take it hunting some time, even bought a 5 round mag for that purpose. What hunting cartridges CAN I use without causing/possibly causing damage (and with no adjustment to piston system)? I would be interested in buying a box or two to test out before going in the field.

 

[Onmilo]

Short answer is yes.
Bear in mind that a standard barrel is not rifles to optimize heavy loads such as 180-200 grain.
Commercial 150-168 will do much better.

 

[LemmyCaution]

So would it be safe to fire, for example, Remington Cor Lokt PSP 150gr in an M1a, and if so, with or without the spindle valve closed?

 

[Mark whiz]

A M1A will be fine with any commercial ammo below 180gr. Mine has worked fine with any commercial I've put in it - just stay away from any that says Hi-Powered or something along those lines.

There really is no need to close off the gas system when you do it either, I've found that shooting with the spindle closed can make it REALLY hard to open the bolt to extract the spent case - even having to get a mallet to whack it open .

 

[MTMilitiaman]

I've no experience with the Remington rounds but I've put Federal 150 gr JSPs through my Loaded with no adverse affects. These would be fine for deer. I'd prefer a 165 gr bullet for elk.

 

[lipadj46]

So would it be safe to fire, for example, Remington Cor Lokt PSP 150gr in an M1a, and if so, with or without the spindle valve closed?

Yes rule of thumb is anything under 180 is OK. Soft point bullets may ger mashed up while being fed so experiment. Many people end up hunting with hollow point match ammunition or the stuff with the hard polymer tips.

 

[madcratebuilder]

If you want to shoot 180gr or heavier, use a grooved gas cylinder piston. Give Sadlak a call, they well gladly talk to you about the pros and cons of heavy loads.